Today, it has become increasingly common for individuals to pre-plan and put their end-of-life wishes on paper so that surviving family and friends know exactly how to honor and celebrate a loved one’s life. Many individuals are also shying away from traditional funerals and are instead looking for different ways to personalize and make a final tribute memorable.

The purpose of this course is to help funeral directors create an environment that encourages families to discuss their thoughts and wishes about their funerals before the time comes. Because these wishes can be written and ideas shared, the at-need arrangements can truly reflect the unique life of a loved one. The course also discusses the growing trend of personalized funeral services and how, by engaging families in the arrangement process, funeral directors can help families give their beloved family member one last gift and final showing of their love and affection. 

Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:

• understand the meaning of “engagement”
• know the step-by-step process of engaging families in the process of making funeral arrangements
• recognize the value of engaging the family, both pre-need and at-need
• understand how a personalized funeral service can help friends and family celebrate the unique life and memory of a loved one